A study on Vietnamese undergraduates’ level of digital skills and the frequency of using digital tools in the EFL context

Abstract

The current study aims to examine the digital skill level of 369 Vietnamese sophomores in the EFL context. An adapted instrument was translated and revised multiple times before administering the final version of the questionnaire to students. The findings of the research have revealed that students have sufficient digital facilities and they are familiar with using technologies for their language learning. Furthermore, students have achieved an average level of digital skill, and they are most proficient in using social networking services in comparison with other applications. Concerning the frequency of using digital tools, students reported that they do not often utilize digital applications in their language learning. Among applications, students more often use social media than other tools. Besides, the study also explored that there are correlations among digital skill, the frequency of using technology and the ICT facilities and ICT familiarity. It is suggested that there is a necessity in curriculum or teaching methodology changes to create opportunities for students to enhance their digital skills in their language learning in particular and in education in general as they are the digital ‘natives’ of the community.